U.S. patent application number 12/978386 was filed with the patent office on 2011-05-19 for carbonation device.
Invention is credited to PATRICK J. TATERA.
Application Number | 20110115103 12/978386 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44010700 |
Filed Date | 2011-05-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110115103 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TATERA; PATRICK J. |
May 19, 2011 |
CARBONATION DEVICE
Abstract
The carbonation device includes a cap system selectively mounted
to the mouth of a liquid container. The cap system includes a cap,
a syringe piston reciprocable within the cap, an actuating
mechanism for reciprocating the syringe piston, and a reaction
vessel selectively attached to the bottom of the cap. The syringe
piston includes a storage area to be filled with water by repeated
activation of the actuating mechanism. The water from the charged
syringe piston discharges into the reaction vessel that has been
filled with a preselected amount of reactants to initiate the
carbonation reaction. In an alternative embodiment, the carbonation
device includes a rotatable control ring to selectively puncture a
CO.sub.2 cartridge inside the reaction vessel or introduce water
into the reaction vessel to initiate carbonation reaction. In both
embodiments, the CO.sub.2 flows from the reaction vessel into the
container to carbonate the beverage contained therein.
Inventors: |
TATERA; PATRICK J.;
(Talkeetna, AK) |
Family ID: |
44010700 |
Appl. No.: |
12/978386 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12591407 |
Nov 18, 2009 |
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12978386 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
261/35 ;
261/121.1; 261/DIG.7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01F 15/0201 20130101;
B01F 3/04801 20130101; B01F 15/0224 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
261/35 ;
261/121.1; 261/DIG.007 |
International
Class: |
B01F 3/04 20060101
B01F003/04 |
Claims
1. A carbonation device, comprising: a substantially hollow cap
adapted to be mounted to an opening of a liquid container; a
reciprocating syringe piston slidably mounted on the cap, the
syringe piston having a bowl for holding and dispensing water and
gas; an actuating mechanism mounted on the cap for selectively
reciprocating the syringe piston; a reaction vessel mounted on the
cap, the reaction vessel being adapted to hold carbonating gas
producing reagents to be mixed with the water, and a carbonating
gas distribution system connected to the cap, the system dispensing
the carbonating gas into liquid held in the liquid container;
wherein operation of the actuating mechanism creates a vacuum for
drawing the water into the bowl, the water being dispensed into the
reaction vessel to be mixed with the reagents and thereby produce
carbonating gas for carbonating beverage inside the liquid
container.
2. The carbonation device according to claim 1, wherein the cap
includes a handle loop.
3. The carbonation device according claim 1, wherein said cap
comprises first internal threads for mounting the cap onto the
liquid container, the first internal threads having a diameter, and
second internal threads concentric with the first internal threads,
the second internal threads mounting said reaction vessel, the
second internal threads having a diameter smaller than the first
inner threads.
4. The carbonation device according to claim 1, wherein the syringe
piston comprises: an upwardly extending piston rod centrally
disposed in said bowl, the piston rod having a pivot pin pivotally
connected to said actuating mechanism; and a vent post formed at
the bottom of said bowl, the vent post having a throughbore
permitting flow of water or gas into and out of said bowl.
5. The carbonation device according to claim 4, wherein the syringe
piston further comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs in said
bowl for maintaining shape of said bowl.
6. The carbonation device according to claim 5, wherein the syringe
piston further comprises a plurality of handle fins integral to
said bowl.
7. The carbonation device according to claim 1, wherein the syringe
piston comprises: a flexible diaphragm having a shape defining said
bowl; an upwardly extending piston rod centrally disposed in said
bowl, the piston rod being attached to said actuating mechanism; a
vent post formed in said bowl, the vent post having a throughbore
permitting flow of water or gas into and out of said bowl as the
diaphragm is flexed by said actuating mechanism; and a mounting
recess disposed in said bowl, the mounting recess being adapted to
receive one end of a distribution tube.
8. The carbonation device according to claim 7, further comprising
a plurality of seals pressure sealing said cap, said reaction
vessel and said syringe piston.
9. The carbonation device according to claim 1, wherein said cap
has a recess defined therein, said actuating mechanism comprising:
a cam lever mounted in the recess in said cap, the cam lever having
a portion thereof pivotally attached to said syringe piston; at
least one follower disposed on one end of the cam lever; and a cam
channel formed in the recess in said cap; wherein raising and
lowering of the cam lever reciprocates said syringe piston.
10. The carbonation device according to claim 9, further comprising
a locking mechanism for locking the cam lever in a lowered
position.
11. The carbonation device according to claim 10, wherein the
locking mechanism comprises: an elongate locking bar extending
perpendicular to said cam lever, said locking bar having a
cross-sectional shape and a discontinuous section; a pair of spaced
mounting slots formed in said recess, said slots having a shape
corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of said locking bar; and
a central rib on said cam lever, the central rib having a slot, the
slot having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of
said locking bar; wherein said locking bar is slidable in said
mounting slots to a locked position where the cross-sectional shape
of the bar mates with the shape of the slot in said central rib,
forming a locking joint, and to an unlocked position where said
discontinuous portion mates with the slot in said central rib.
12. The carbonation device according to claim 1, further comprising
a pressure relief valve disposed on top of said cap.
13. The carbonation device according to claim 12, wherein said
pressure relief valve comprises: a ball received in a recess on
said cap, the ball covering a vent hole; an elongated spring
biasing the ball against the vent hole at one end; and a nut
disposed against the other end of the spring.
14. The carbonation device according to claim 13, further
comprising a plurality of seals pressure-sealing said cap, said
reaction vessel and said syringe piston.
15. A carbonation device, comprising: a substantially hollow cap
adapted to be mounted to an opening of a liquid container, the cap
comprising; a partition dividing the cap into upper and lower
chambers, the lower chamber having a plurality of threads; at least
a pair of spaced upper vents disposed on the upper chamber, the
upper vents allowing flow of medium through the upper chamber; and
at least a pair of spaced lower vents disposed on the lower
chamber, the lower vents allowing flow of medium through the lower
chamber; a control ring rotatably mounted to the cap, the control
ring having at least a pair of interior control grooves, the
control ring being selectively rotated into a plurality of control
positions, the control grooves being selectively aligned with the
upper and lower vents to permit medium flow; a reaction vessel
mounted to the cap, the reaction vessel being adapted for holding
carbonating gas-producing elements; a hollow lance disposed in the
partition, the lance having a passage for medium flow between the
upper chamber and the reaction vessel; a piston for selectively
opening a port communicating with the reciprocating lance; and a
carbonating gas distribution system connected to the cap, the
system dispensing the carbonating gas into liquid held in the
liquid container; wherein rotation of the control ring to select
positions about the cap allows a user to control various stages of
producing the carbonating gas to obtain a carbonated beverage.
16. A carbonation device, comprising: a substantially hollow cap
adapted to be mounted to an opening of a liquid container; a
reciprocating syringe piston slidably mounted on the cap, the
syringe piston having a piston rod and being adapted for holding
and dispensing water and gas, the syringe piston being biased
towards the bottom of the container; an actuating mechanism
attached to the piston rod for selectively reciprocating the
syringe piston; a reaction vessel mounted on the cap, the reaction
vessel being adapted to hold carbonating gas producing reagents to
be mixed with the water or a carbonating gas cartridge; a
carbonating gas distribution system connected to the cap, the
system being adapted for dispensing the carbonating gas into
beverage held in the liquid container; and a lance valve assembly
selectively attached to the interior of the reaction vessel, the
lance valve assembly having a hollow lance for piercing a nipple on
the cartridge and permitting gas to flow from the cartridge towards
the interior of the container, the lance valve assembly having a
selectively sealable port; wherein operation of the actuating
mechanism presses the syringe piston towards the lance valve
assembly to thereby unseal the port and facilitate carbonating gas
flow into the beverage contained inside the liquid container.
17. The carbonation device of claim 16, wherein the lance valve
assembly further comprises: an elongate, central throughbore, the
central throughbore communicating between said reaction vessel and
said syringe piston; a ball selectively sealing said port at one
end of the throughbore; a spring attached to the ball, the spring
biasing the ball against said port, said hollow lance being
disposed in the other end of the throughbore; and a retaining ring
retaining said hollow lance in the throughbore.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of my prior application Ser.
No. 12/591,407, filed Nov. 18, 2009, which is hereby incorporated
by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to beverage enhancers, and
more specifically to carbonation device for carbonating beverages,
particularly home-brew beer, in a relatively short amount of
time.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] One of the basic necessities to any outdoor activity is
potable liquid. It is basic to survival and allows the outdoorsman,
e.g. backpackers, hunters, hikers and campers, to keep the body
hydrated during the physical activity. If the outdoorsman desires
carbonated beverages, the outdoorsman is relegated to toting around
bottles or cans of pre-carbonated beverages that may add
considerable weight and bulk to his or her pack. Majority of the
weight and volume is attributed to the water component in the
beverages.
[0006] A solution for the drawbacks of the above would be to carry
a beverage concentrate to which a user may add purified water for a
refreshing drink. However, this solution still lacks the
effervescent sensation provided by carbonation that many people
enjoy.
[0007] Another solution involves the use of a complicated cap
system for a bottle or container comprising a plurality of
mechanical parts and piping for pressurizing and distributing
carbonating gas into the liquid. However, this type of system is
costly and difficult to clean, mainly due to the complexity and
number of parts for the device.
[0008] A further solution involves the use of a carbonation tablet
that may be dropped into a liquid container to produce the
effervescence. This is a quick and easy way to carbonate the
liquid, but the resultant product oftentimes includes an aftertaste
that may overpower the taste of the potable liquid. Moreover, the
chemical reaction may include some unpalatable solid byproducts.
Thus, it would be a benefit in the art to provide an efficient and
economical device for carbonating potable liquids with minimal
adverse effects on the palate.
[0009] Thus, a carbonation device solving the aforementioned
problems is desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The carbonation device includes a cap system selectively
mounted to the mouth of a liquid container. The cap system includes
a cap, a syringe piston reciprocable within the cap, an actuating
mechanism for reciprocating the syringe piston, and a reaction
vessel selectively attached to the bottom of the cap. The syringe
piston includes a storage area to be filled with water by repeated
activation of the actuating mechanism. The water from the charged
syringe piston discharges into the reaction vessel that has been
filled with a preselected amount of reactants to initiate the
carbonation reaction. In an alternative embodiment, the carbonation
device includes a rotatable control ring to selectively puncture a
CO.sub.2 cartridge inside the reaction vessel or introduce water
into the reaction vessel to initiate carbonation reaction. In both
embodiments, the CO.sub.2 flows from the reaction vessel into the
container to carbonate the beverage contained therein.
[0011] These and other features of the present invention will
become readily apparent upon further review of the following
specification and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is an environmental perspective view of a first
embodiment of a carbonation device according to the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the carbonation device of FIG.
1.
[0014] FIG. 3 is an elevation view in section of the carbonation
device of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the syringe piston in
the carbonation device of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the lever on the
carbonation device of FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a partial environmental elevation view in section
of an alternative embodiment of a carbonation device according to
the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 7 is an environmental perspective view of another
alternative embodiment of a carbonation device according to the
present invention.
[0019] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the carbonation device shown
in FIG. 7.
[0020] FIG. 9 is an elevation view in section of the carbonation
device shown in FIG. 7.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a partial elevation view in section of the
carbonation device shown in FIG. 9.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a partial environmental elevation view in section
of another alternative embodiment of a carbonation device.
[0023] Similar reference characters denote corresponding features
consistently throughout the attached drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0024] The carbonation device is a device for producing carbonated
beverages on demand in an efficient manner. As shown in FIGS. 1-3,
in a first embodiment, the carbonation device 10 includes a cap 20
adapted to be mounted to a liquid container or water bottle 12 via
threads. A carabiner loop or handle 22 extends from one side of the
cap 20 for ease of transport or attachment to a backpack. The cap
20 includes a substantially hollow cylindrical body having internal
threads 21 on the cap 20 that are adapted for mating with external
threads 14 on the container 12. A concentric annular wall 24 is
disposed inside the cap 20 and includes a plurality of internal
threads 23 for mounting a reaction vessel or cup 30 with mating
threads 32. The carbonation device 10 utilizes an endothermic
reaction to produce carbonating gas, i.e. CO.sub.2, within the
reaction vessel 30. The gas feeds into the liquid, fluid or
beverage to be carbonated from the reaction vessel 30 through the
threads 32 towards the interior of the container 12. The threads 32
preferably do not extend continuously around the reaction vessel
30. Instead, the threads 32 are configured to have gaps or less
restricted passages for gas or CO.sub.2 to flow from the reaction
vessel 30 into the container 12. To insure an airtight seal of the
cap 20 during the carbonation process, a first O-ring 16 is
disposed between the cap 20 and the container 12.
[0025] The reaction chamber or vessel 30 may be a substantially
hollow body having a dome-shaped closed end and an opposite open
end. The outer surface of the reaction vessel 30 may also include
grip-enhancing protrusions to assist in handling and mounting.
Various types of grip enhancing features may also be included.
Moreover, the reaction vessel 30 is preferably made from plastic or
other durable materials that can withstand the pressures
experienced by the reaction vessel 30 in a safe manner. Similar
materials are applicable to the container 12.
[0026] In order to produce the CO.sub.2 for carbonation, the
reaction vessel 12 is filled with a predetermined amount of
carbonating material, such as sodium bicarbonate and citric acid,
either in powder or tablet form. By mixing the sodium bicarbonate
and citric acid with water, carbonating gas, such as CO.sub.2, may
be formed therein and distributed. The water is supplied by a
syringe piston 40, which serves as both a means of delivering water
to the reaction vessel 30 and as a valve for delivering the
CO.sub.2 to the container 12. In general, the supplied water reacts
with the carbonating material pressurizing the reaction vessel 30.
Once pressure has been built to a desired level, the syringe piston
40 is raised from the top of the reaction vessel 30 to open a
passage for the gas to escape into the container 12.
[0027] As shown in FIGS. 2-4, the syringe piston 40 is configured
as a bowl or cup 41 for holding water therein. It should be
recognized that the configuration of the bowl 41 is not limited to
just water. The bowl 41 may also hold and transfer gases. The bowl
41 may be shaped in a variety of ways to accommodate the specific
volume of material to be moved or held by the syringe piston 40.
The bottom of the bowl 41 includes outwardly extending ribs or
walls 50, serving as a handle for installation thereof. An
actuating mechanism, which will be further detailed below,
reciprocates the syringe piston 40 within the cap 20. A shaft or
rod 42 centrally disposed on the syringe piston 40 rides or slides
within a central bore 27 on the cap 20. Thus, the bore 27 defines
the path of travel for the syringe piston 40. The shaft 42 includes
an annular groove 43 where a shaft O-ring 13 may be inserted to
provide an airtight and watertight seal in the bore 27 during
reciprocation of the syringe piston 40.
[0028] The syringe piston 40 also includes additional seals to
provide a pressure-tight seal. A radially extending flange 44 at
the top of the syringe piston 40 includes an annular groove or
channel defined therein for a second, relatively large diameter
O-ring 17. A third, smaller O-ring 18 is preferably disposed below
the flange 44 within the annular groove or channel 46 such that
when the reaction chamber is threaded to the bottom of the cap 20,
and the syringe piston 40 is plunged downward, the third O-ring 18
seals against the open end of the reaction vessel 30 and closes the
reaction vessel 30 off from the beverage container, thereby
stopping the flow of CO.sub.2 gas into the beverage. Thus, the
third O-ring 18 may also be referred to as a valve ring.
Alternative arrangements may be possible with the third O-ring 18,
depending upon the geometry and location of the reaction vessel
CO.sub.2 exhaust ports. In the preferred embodiment, the entire
open end of the reaction cup becomes the required sealing surface
to close the flow of CO.sub.2 gas from entering the beverage.
However, other CO.sub.2 exhaust path mechanisms, such as a
centrally disposed straw, may require corresponding resizing and
repositioning of the third O-ring 18.
[0029] During operation of the syringe piston 40, the syringe
piston 40 may tend to rotate from the frictional contact with the
O-rings 17 and 18. If left unchecked, this action tends to place
rotational strain on the connection between the syringe piston 40
and the actuating mechanism, which may lead to structural failure
or deformation. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the carbonation device
10 includes an anti-rotation assembly preventing the syringe piston
40 from rotating. In FIG. 2, the interior of the bowl 41 includes a
pair of spaced diametrically extending fins, ribs or walls 47
extending from opposed sides of the shaft 42. The spacing between
each set of fins 47 forms an anti-rotation slot 52. The central
column 26 includes a pair of radially extending anti-rotation fins,
ribs or walls 51 (FIG. 3) that slidably fit within the respective
anti-rotation slots 52. This connection insures that the syringe
piston 40 reciprocates vertically and will not rotate. In addition
to forming an anti-rotation assembly, the anti-rotation fins 47
also reinforce the walls of the bowl 41 and thereby maintain the
shape of the bowl or cup 41.
[0030] The bottom of the syringe piston 40 also includes a
downwardly extending post or bushing 48 having a through bore or
port 49. The port 49 permits transfer of fluid or gas between the
reaction vessel 30 and the bowl 41.
[0031] As shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 5, the actuating mechanism 60 may
include a cam lever 62 disposed within a recess 26 on top of the
cap 20. The lever 62 is pivotally connected to the piston shaft 42
via a pin, bar or rod 61. The pin 61 is threaded through
corresponding bores 63 on the lever 62 and a pivot bore on the
piston shaft 42. The lever 62 includes at least one follower 64
adjacent the bore 63. The follower(s) 64 rides in corresponding cam
channels, grooves or slots 28 disposed within the recess 26. The
follower(s) 64 also defines the pivot axis of the lever 62.
Selective operation of the lever 62 up or down results in
corresponding raising or lowering motion of the syringe piston 40.
Since the central bore 27 limits the shaft movement vertically, the
action of the follower(s) 64 and cam channels 28 ensure that
movement of the pivotal connection between the lever 62 and the
shaft 42 is also limited vertically due to the pivot axis being
variable during the operation of the lever 62. Although the above
is a preferred exemplary embodiment, other alternative mechanical
mechanisms that provide mechanical advantage for moving the syringe
piston 40, such as a four-bar linkage or a threaded rotational
actuating cap, may also be used.
[0032] The actuating mechanism 60 may also include a locking
assembly for keeping the lever in the inoperative or down position,
especially for transport. Another main aspect for the locked
position is that the locked position seals the syringe piston 40
against the top of the reaction vessel 30 whenever needed, i.e.,
the locked position closes the valve. The locking assembly includes
a slidable locking bar, rod or beam 66 received in correspondingly
spaced mounting slots 67 formed in the recess walls of the recess
26. The locking bar 66 may be an elongate beam having a
substantially trapezoidal shape in cross section. A central rib on
the bottom of the lever 62 includes a locking slot 68 corresponding
to the cross-sectional shape of the locking bar 66 to form a
dovetail join when the locking bar 66 is in the locked position. To
release the lock, the user slides the locking bar 66 until an
unobstructed zone 69 mates with the locking slot 68, where the
dovetail join cannot form. In this position, the lever 62 is free
to move. Other alternative locking mechanisms, such as latches or
spring locks, are also viable alternatives.
[0033] During operation of the carbonation device 10, the interior
pressure may at times require release. In that regard, the
carbonation device 10 includes a pressure relief valve 70 disposed
in the recess 26 on top of the cap 20 adjacent the actuating
mechanism 60. The pressure relief valve 70 includes an elastomeric
ball 76 covering a relief hole or bore 29. The ball 76 is held in
place by the combined action of the biasing means, such as a spring
74 and a nut 72 threaded into the recess 26. The spring 74 holds
the ball 76 against the bore 29 and is preferably configured to
withstand a certain amount of pressure prior to having the ball 76
forcibly moved away from the bore 29 when the internal pressure
overcomes the strength of the spring 74. Various springs, such as a
clip spring or an elastomeric sleeve, are viable alternatives for
the relief valve 70.
[0034] The following describes how to use the carbonation device
10. When a user desires to carbonate a beverage, the cap 20 is
removed from the container 12 to remove the reaction vessel 30. The
container 12 is filled with some water and the cap 20 replaced. The
container 12 is turned upside down so that the water pools toward
the cap 20. The lever 72 is then unlocked and pivoted up and down
repeatedly to reciprocate the syringe piston 40. The reciprocation
of the syringe piston 40 creates a vacuum that pulls the water into
the cup 41 through the port 49. The cup 41 is completely filled
when no more air bubbles escape through the port 49.
[0035] Once filled with water, the reaction vessel 30 is filled
with a predetermined amount of carbonating reagents and mounted to
the cap 20. The container 12 is then filled with the beverage to be
carbonated, and the cap 20 is reattached. In the upright position,
the lever 72 is cycled several times to dispense the water through
the port 49. The water contacts the effervescent reagents within
the reaction vessel 30 and triggers the start of the chemical
reaction. After a short period of time, the lever 72 is placed in
the up position to open the top of the reaction vessel 30, which
permits flow of the carbonating gas from the reaction vessel 30
into the beverage. It is noted that during this operation, the
configuration of the syringe piston 40 and the limited travel
facilitated by the piston shaft 42 allows for only a fraction of
the water to be dispensed into the reaction vessel 30 at a time.
While it is possible to empty the full contents of the syringe
piston 40 at one time with corresponding modifications of, inter
alia, the syringe piston 40 and the reaction vessel 30, such a
configuration may cause a difficult to control reaction with the
carbonating reagents, i.e., the reaction and pressure buildup may
be too rapid. To help prevent this type of occurrence, the
carbonation production is staggered by using discreet amounts of
water per cycle until all the water has been consumed. Thus,
carbonation occurs over a longer period of time for a more even and
thereby efficient consumption and absorption of the gas into the
beverage.
[0036] As naturally occurs, the gas production reaches equilibrium
where carbonation is at a minimum. At this point, the user operates
the lever 72 into the down position, closing the reaction vessel
30. The user then locks the lever 72 and shakes the carbonation
device 10 vigorously for a short time. This agitation serves two
purposes. The first purpose results in increased production of
carbonating gas by increasing the reaction between the reagents.
The second purpose results in forcing the remaining gas in the
container 12 to be absorbed into the beverage due to the beverage
moving inside the container 12. Both result in optimizing
carbonation of the beverage.
[0037] When the newly generated CO.sub.2 reaches a desired pressure
level, the lever 72 can be raised to the up position to thereby
open the top of the reaction vessel 30 and allow the gas to escape
into the beverage. The above is repeated until the beverage has
been carbonated to the user's satisfaction.
[0038] Thus, it can be seen that the carbonation device 10 is a
compact, efficient apparatus for producing carbonated beverages on
demand. The syringe piston 40 performs all the functions necessary
for producing and delivering the carbonating gas in an efficient
and relatively simple manner. The construction of the carbonation
device 10 also permits easy assembly and disassembly for storage,
travel and cleaning.
[0039] The above exemplary embodiment utilizes a relatively stiff
syringe piston 40. However, a more flexible one may be used to
obtain similar results. As shown in FIG. 6, the alternative
carbonation device 100 is substantially the same as the carbonation
device 10. The carbonation device 100 includes a cap 120 adapted to
be mounted to the container 112 and a reaction chamber or vessel
130 is mounted below the cap 120. An O-ring 116 seals the
connection between the cap 120 and the container 112.
[0040] Instead of a relatively stiff syringe piston, the
carbonation device 100 includes a flexible diaphragm syringe piston
140. The diaphragm syringe piston 140 includes a bowl or cup 141
and a central piston rod or shaft 142 attached to an actuating rod
or shaft 172 via threads or locking barbs. An O-ring 113 surrounds
the actuating shaft 172 to seal reciprocation within the central
bore 127 on the cap 120. The bottom of the diaphragm syringe piston
140 includes a downwardly extending post or bushing 148 having a
throughbore or port 149. The port 149 permits transfer of fluid or
gas between the reaction vessel 130 and the bowl 141. Moreover, a
central flange 143 is formed at the bottom of the diaphragm syringe
piston 140. The central flange 143 includes a recess for receiving
one end of a distribution tube or straw 102. The other end of the
distribution tube 102 opens into the interior of the container 112.
As an alternative, the carbonation device 100 may include a include
a lancing mechanism to facilitate use of a CO.sub.2 cartridge.
[0041] In most respects, the carbonation device 100 operates
substantially the same as the carbonation device 10. However,
reciprocation of the actuating shaft 172 flexes the diaphragm
syringe piston 140, creating vacuum and a pumping action for intake
and discharge of fluid or gas. When carbonating gas is produced and
the pressure builds, the pressure inside the reaction vessel 130
lifts the central flange 143, permitting CO.sub.2 to escape through
the distribution tube 102 into the beverage contained in the
container 112.
[0042] Another alternative embodiment of the carbonation device is
shown in FIGS. 7-10. The carbonation device 200 is a universal type
that uses reagents or CO.sub.2 cartridges. As shown, the
carbonation device 200 includes a cap 220 adapted to be selectively
mounted to a liquid container or water bottle 212; a control ring,
valve or manifold 240 coaxially mounted and rotatable with respect
to the cap 220; a reaction chamber, container or vessel 260
detachably mounted to the bottom of the cap 220; and a carbonating
gas distribution tube or straw 272 or CO.sub.2 cartridge 274
detachably mounted to the bottom of the cap 220 adjacent the
reaction vessel 260. Various ports and vents in the cap 220 and the
control ring 240 align with each other at preselected rotated
positions of the control ring 240 for each stage of the carbonation
process.
[0043] Turning to FIG. 8, the cap 220 includes a tiered or
telescoping cylindrical body having an upper, first body portion
226 and a lower, second body portion 222. The first body portion
226 has a smaller diameter than the second body portion 222. The
larger diameter second body portion 222 forms a ledge upon which
the control ring 240 may be mounted and rotated. The outer edge of
the second body portion 222 may include indentions, protrusions or
other grip enhancing features. The second body portion 222 forms a
substantially annular ring with internal threads 224 for mounting
the cap 220 onto the container 212 via corresponding threads 214.
This connection is sealed by a first O-ring 210. The cap 220 also
includes internal threads 218 inside the first body portion 222
adapted to mate with matching threads 262 on the reaction vessel
260. A second O-ring 211 provides a pressure-tight seal between the
cap 220 and the reaction vessel 260.
[0044] The first body portion 222 includes a partition 224
separating the interior of the first body portion 222 into an upper
chamber and a lower chamber. A pair of diametrically disposed upper
ports, vents or holes 228 are formed on the upper chamber portion
of the first body portion 222. These upper vents 228 permit flow of
fluid or gas into the upper chamber. Below each upper vent 228 is a
corresponding lower port, vent or hole 229 that permits flow of
fluid or gas through the lower chamber.
[0045] The control ring 240 is rotatably mounted to the first body
portion 226 of the cap 220. The control ring 240 may be a
cylindrical body having a smaller diameter open top 254. To
facilitate secure operative engagement therebetween, the control
ring 240 includes discontinuous interior flanges or tabs 242
projecting radially inwardly from near the bottom of the interior
of the control ring 240. These tabs 242 include locking notches or
indentions that are disposed in the internal annular groove or
channel 244 at predefined positions around the inner circumference
of the control ring 240. Each notch indention corresponds to a
selected control position for operation of the carbonation device
200. The first body portion 226 includes at least two rotation tabs
230 extending radially outwardly from the exterior surface of the
first body portion 226. Each rotation tab 230 includes a locking
protuberance 231 engageable with the above-mentioned locking
indentions in the control ring 240 when assembled. The interaction
between the locking protuberances 231 and the locking indentions
locks the relative positions of the control ring 240 about the cap
220 for select operations of the carbonation device 200.
[0046] The interior of the control ring 240 also includes a pair of
diametrically opposed control grooves or vents 246 that align and
communicate with the upper vents 228 and the lower vents 229 when
the control ring 240 is rotated to a select position. As shown in
FIGS. 7 and 8, the top portion of the control ring 240 includes a
plurality of indicia 250-252. The indicium 250 refers, e.g., to an
"unlocked" position in which the control ring 240 can be removed
from the cap 220 for cleaning purposes. The indicium 251 refers,
e.g., to the "CO.sub.2" position, which aligns the control grooves
246 with the upper and lower vents 228 and 229. The indicium 252
refers, e.g., to a "locked" position in which the upper and lower
vents 228 and 229 are blocked so that the carbonation device 200
can be transported or for shaking the carbonation device 200.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 8, the upper chamber of the cap 220 is
open. To cover the same, the carbonation device 200 includes a
vertically movable top cover 232 that, when assembled, forms an
enclosed upper chamber. The cover 232 includes a radially extending
circular flange 236 abutting the underside of the top portion of
the control ring 240, which prevents the same from falling out of
the control ring 240. A sealing ring 225 on top of an annular
spring 223 insures a pressure-tight seal. An intermediate control
plate or piston 238, the function of which will be further
explained below, includes a downwardly extending protrusion,
extension or button 239. The control plate 238 is disposed between
the cover 232 and the top of the upper chamber in the cap 220. The
cover 232 also includes a pointer indicium 234, which serves as a
guide for selectively positioning the control ring 240 at the
desired position. This is facilitated by aligning the respective
indicia 250-252 with the pointer indicium 234. The cover 232 may
include a carabiner ring or loop 231 for transport or attachment to
a backpack.
[0048] To regulate pressure and distribution of fluid or gas, the
carbonation device 200 may include several pressure relief valves.
The first pressure relief valve is formed at the center of the
partition 224. A first relief valve housing 280 extends through the
center of the partition 224. The upper half of the first relief
valve housing 280 includes an opening 282 through which gas may
escape into the upper chamber. The upper half houses a ball 304
biased against the opening 282 by a spring 302. The lower half of
the valve housing 280 includes a hollow lance or spear 300 with a
point for piercing the nipple of a CO.sub.2 cartridge 274.
[0049] The lance 300 is shaped like a flanged bushing with the
pointed end disposed towards the interior of the reaction vessel
260 or the container 212. The flanged portion of the lance 300
abuts against a stepped portion of first relief valve housing 280
on one side. A retention O-ring 306 helps to retain the lance 300
within the first relief housing 280, as well as sealing the
interior for optimum flow of medium. As previously mentioned, the
lance 300 is hollow and includes a bore or passage 301 permitting
the flow of medium between the upper and lower chambers of the cap
220. Pressure is relieved either by forceful uncovering of the
opening 282 by the button 239 pressing down on the ball 304, or by
lessening of the interior pressure over time. The relief over time
releases some of the compression on the spring 302 via the lance
300, which consequently permits the ball 304 to lower and uncover
the hole or port 282.
[0050] A second pressure relief valve housing 284 is disposed
adjacent the first relief valve housing 280. The second pressure
relief valve housing 284 encloses balls or obstructions 312, 316
disposed on opposite sides of a spring 314. The spring 314 and the
balls 312, 316 are retained within the second relief valve housing
284 by a retention sealing ring 310. As an alternative, a third
pressure relief valve may be disposed at the bottom of the reaction
vessel 260 to selectively relieve pressure therein. The third
pressure relief valve may be of similar construction to the first
relief valve.
[0051] As mentioned, the universal carbonation device 300 utilizes
carbonating gas either from reagents or from a CO.sub.2 cartridge
274. Both are facilitated through the reaction vessel 260. As shown
in FIGS. 8 and 9, the reaction vessel 260 includes a mounting
recess 264 in communication with a vent, port or hole 266, through
which carbonating gas exits into the interior of the container
212.
[0052] When the cartridge 274 is to be used, the cartridge 274 may
normally be stored upside down so that the nipple of the cartridge
274 is mounted inside recess 264. When using reagents, a
distribution tube 272 is installed inside the reaction chamber 260
with one end attached to the lower portion of the first relief
valve housing 280 and the other end attached to the mounting recess
264.
[0053] The following describes how to use the universal carbonation
device 200 using either carbonating source. In the first example,
using the cartridge 274, the user rotates the control ring 240 into
the "locked" position to facilitate insertion of the cartridge 272.
The cap 220 is threaded onto the reaction vessel 260 forcing the
nipple of the cartridge 274 to move towards the lance 300 and be
pierced thereby. Then the cap 220 is attached to the container 212.
The CO.sub.2 gas exits the cartridge and travels through the lance
300 and the first pressure relief valve housing 280. Then the gas
enters the upper chamber under the piston 238. The pressure within
this region increases until the pressure generates enough force to
lift the piston 238 against the opposing force of the spring 223
above. When the piston 238 lifts, this action releases the ball
304, allowing the ball 304 to seal against the port 282. At this
point, pressure is permitted to build.
[0054] To initiate carbonation of the beverage in the container
212, the user rotates the control ring 240 into the "CO.sub.2"
position aligning the vent control grooves 246 with the upper and
lower vents 228 and 229. The gas trapped in the upper chamber flows
through the upper vents 228 into the lower vents 229 towards the
lower chamber. From there, the gas exits through the exhaust port
266 to carbonate the beverage.
[0055] As the gas exits the upper chamber, pressure is reduced
therein. Since the annular spring 223 normally biases the piston
238 towards the first relief valve housing 280, the button 239
eventually presses down on the ball 304 to unseal the port 282.
This permits residual pressure inside the cartridge 274 to transfer
the remaining gas inside the cartridge 274. The user may shake the
carbonation device 200 to force carbonate the beverage for
substantially the dual purposes discussed above. When the desired
carbonation has been reached, the beverage is ready to be
enjoyed.
[0056] When using reagents, the user initially places the cap 220
upside down with the control ring 240 in the "CO.sub.2" position,
aligning the vent control grooves 246 with the upper and lower
vents 228 and 229. The interior of the cap 220 forms a funnel, to
which the user may add water so that the water accumulates into the
upper chamber. Once the upper chamber has been filled, the control
ring 240 is rotated to the "locked" position, trapping the water in
the upper chamber.
[0057] The reaction vessel 260 is filled with a predetermined
amount of carbonating reagents, such as citric acid and sodium
bicarbonate, and then attached to the cap 220. The whole assembly
is then mounted to the container 212 that has been filled with the
beverage to be carbonated. Once firmly attached to the container
212 and the distribution tube 272 is reattached, the control ring
240 is again rotated to the "CO.sub.2" position, releasing the
trapped water into the reaction vessel 260. The water and the
reagents initiate production of carbonating gas.
[0058] The produced gas leaves the reaction chamber 260 through the
lower vents 229 and into the upper chamber via upper vents 228.
Since the annular spring 223 normally presses down on the piston
238, releasing the ball 304 and unsealing the port 282, the gas
flows through the lance 300 and the tube 272 into the beverage. As
the interior pressure slowly decreases over time, the lessening
pressure becomes less than the pressure from the spring 302, at
which point the ball 304 seals the port 282.
[0059] The user may vigorously shake the carbonating device 200 for
a brief period of time after rotating the control into the "locked"
position. The shaking helps to recharge the carbonating reaction.
Then the control ring 240 may be returned to the "CO.sub.2"
position to recommence distribution of the carbonating gas. The
above may be repeated until the desired carbonation has been
reached. Then the beverage is ready to be enjoyed.
[0060] As with the carbonation device 10, the alternative
carbonation devices 100, 200 are compact, efficient apparatus for
producing carbonated beverages on demand. The endothermic reaction
provides some cooling to the beverage. Moreover, the construction
of the alternative carbonation devices 100, 200 permits easy
assembly and disassembly for storage, travel and cleaning.
[0061] A further alternative carbonation device 400 is shown FIG.
11. This embodiment is a further example of a universal carbonation
device using either carbonation reagents or a CO.sub.2 cartridge
including a separate lancing assembly.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 11, the carbonation device 400 includes a
cap 420 adapted to be selectively mounted to a liquid container or
water bottle 412 via threads. A first O-ring 416 provides a
pressure tight seal between the cap 420 and the container 412. A
concentric annular wall 424 is disposed inside the cap 420 and
includes a plurality of internal threads 423 for mounting a
reaction vessel or cup 430 with mating threads 432. As with the
previous carbonation device 10, the threads 432 are configured with
gaps or less restricted passages for gas or CO.sub.2 to flow from
the reaction vessel 430 into the container 412. The reaction vessel
430 may include a plurality of fins symmetrically oriented around
the interior thereof. Moreover, the bottom of the reaction vessel
430 may include a recess similar to the recess 264 for securing a
cartridge therein.
[0063] A reciprocating syringe piston 440 with a piston rod 444
reciprocates within a central bore 427 formed through the top of
the cap 420 to selectively open or close the opening of the
reaction vessel 430, i.e., a valve. The piston rod 444 is sealed
from atmosphere by a piston seal O-ring 413. The bottom of the
syringe piston 440 includes a downwardly extending post or bushing
448 having a through bore or port 449. The port 449 permits
transfer of fluid or gas between the reaction vessel 430 and the
upper portion of the syringe piston 440. A button 442 is formed
adjacent the port 449, and the button 442 performs similar to the
button 239. The carbonation device 400 includes a biasing means,
such as the spring 441 disposed between the cap 420 and the bushing
448, to normally keep the syringe piston 440 in the down position,
sealing the reaction vessel 430. The strength of the spring 441 is
predetermined such that pressure from the reaction vessel 430 may
move the syringe piston 440 to open the valve during the
carbonation process. The bushing 448 and the upper portion of the
syringe piston 440 define a bowl for storage and transfer of fluids
and gases, as in the previous embodiments. The syringe piston 440
also includes a second, relatively large diameter O-ring 417 and a
third, smaller diameter O-ring 418 providing the required seals for
the syringe piston 440. Reciprocation of the syringe piston 440 may
be facilitated by using the handle ring 422. Moreover, the
carbonation device 400 may include a locking mechanism to keep the
syringe piston 440 in the down or "locked" position.
[0064] When using carbonation producing reagents, the cap 420,
container 412, syringe piston 440 and the reaction vessel 430
operate substantially similar to the carbonation device 100. In
most respects, the biased syringe piston 440 functions similarly to
the flexible diaphragm syringe piston 140. However, when the
syringe piston 440 is raised, either manually via the handle ring
422, or by increased pressure from the reaction vessel 430, so that
the product gas flows from the reaction vessel 430 through the
threads 432.
[0065] To use a cartridge in the carbonation device 400, the
carbonation device 400 includes a lance valve assembly 460. The
lance valve assembly 460 may be selectively attached to the
interior of the reaction vessel 430 with matching external threads
474 on the lance valve assembly 460 and internal threads 434 in the
reaction vessel 430. The lance valve assembly 460 includes a
funnel-shaped body 461 having a central bore for installation of a
ball 472, a spring 470, and a lance or spear 466. The lance 466 is
retained in the bore by a retaining ring 468. The spring 470 biases
the ball 472 against the opening or port 473 to normally close the
port 473. The lance 466 includes a pointed end adapted to pierce
the nipple of a cartridge and a bore or hole 467 permitting flow of
gas from the pierced cartridge. The bottom of the body 461 is
curved to conform with the shape of the cartridge, providing a
secure mounting for the cartridge inside the reaction vessel 430.
The upper portion of the body 461 includes an annular raised lip
474 extending upwardly a predetermined distance such that when the
bottom of the syringe piston 440 rests thereon, a gap is maintained
between the port 473 and the bottom of the syringe piston 440. In
this manner, the gas is free to flow as long as the port 473
remains open. The raised lip 474 is configured to allow the flow of
gas through the threads 432 by discontinuities or gaps around the
lip 474.
[0066] In use, the cartridge is installed inside the reaction
vessel 430. The lance valve assembly 460 is threaded inside the
reaction vessel 430 to secure the cartridge therein and
simultaneously pierce the nipple thereof with the lance 466. Once
the reaction vessel 430 is secured to the cap 420 and the cap 420
secured to the container 412, the piston rod 444 is pressed down
manually or by the strength of the spring 441 to move the ball 472
with the button 442.
[0067] As the gas is released from the cartridge, the gas increases
internal pressure that eventually overcomes the force of the spring
441 and slowly raises the ball 472 and the syringe piston 440. In
the meantime, the gas flows through the threads 432 to carbonate
the beverage. Vigorous shaking or agitation and repetition of the
above increases carbonating gas production and absorption till the
desired level of carbonation has been reached.
[0068] It is to be understood that the carbonation devices 10, 100,
200, 400 encompass a wide variety of alternatives. For example, the
carbonation devices 10, 100, 200 are preferably made from durable
plastic, but other materials, such as aluminum, steel, composites,
wood or any combination thereof, may also be used. In addition,
threading and other components may be sized to fit a variety of
bottles and containers. Moreover with respect to the carbonation
device 200, the locations, shape and size of the various ports and
vents in the cap 220 and the control grooves in the control ring
240 may be rearranged, so long as they can be aligned to form
pathways for the water and carbonating gas. As a further
alternative, the lance 300 may be incorporated into the carbonation
devices 10, 100 in a similar manner as that shown in the
carbonation device 400. Furthermore, the carbonation devices 10,
100, 200, 400 may include a variety of colors and indicia for
aesthetic appeal, advertising, personal messaging or indicators of
various components.
[0069] As a still further alternative to the above, a different
kind of valve system may be used to collect and transfer water to a
reaction vessel. For example, a rotatable trough may be used to
collect a preselected amount of water in one position, and in
another rotated position, dumps the water to a reaction vessel.
Moreover, with respect to the carbonation device 200, the
locations, shape and size of the various ports and vents in the cap
220 and the control grooves in the control ring 240 may be
rearranged, so long as they can be aligned to form pathways for the
water and carbonating gas.
[0070] It is to be understood that the present invention is not
limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses any and
all embodiments within the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *